Welcome to International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics Drylands Academy, where the future of the drylands are defined by possibility.
Nestled at the intersection of world-class research, cutting-edge science, and practical outcomes, the Drylands Academy stands as a beacon of learning and knowledge sharing for better agri-food systems in the drylands of Asia, Africa, and beyond.
In an era characterized by environmental challenges and a rapidly growing global population, the necessity for resilient and sustainable agricultural practices has never been more apparent.
ICRISAT's Drylands Academy is a dynamic response to these pressing issues, drawing upon ICRISAT's rich legacy of research excellence over fifty years. With a profound commitment to tackling the unique challenges of semi-arid regions, the Academy offers a transformative platform that combines rigorous scientific inquiry with actionable solutions through pragmatic courses. At the core of the Drylands Academy's ethos is its emphasis on world-class research learnings.
Collaborating with leading experts from diverse fields, the Academy cultivates an environment that encourages interdisciplinary exploration and discovery. Here, researchers, academics, and practitioners converge to unravel the complexities of dryland agri-food systems, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.
Powered by cutting-edge science, the Academy fosters an ecosystem of innovation that bridges theory and practice. From advanced crop breeding techniques to precision agriculture and climate-smart practices, the Academy leverages the latest scientific breakthroughs to shape sustainable solutions tailored to the unique demands of dryland environments. By embracing emerging technologies and methodologies, the Drylands Academy propels agri-food systems towards resilience, productivity, and enhanced livelihoods.
However, the true measure of the Drylands Academy's success lies not just in its scientific prowess, but in the tangible, practical outcomes it delivers. As an institution deeply rooted in the communities it serves, the Academy ensures that its research translates into meaningful impacts on the ground.
From empowering farmers with innovative practices to bolstering food security and fostering economic growth, the Academy's focus on practicality underscores its commitment to making a lasting difference.
We welcome you to the Drylands Academy where curiosity converges with expertise, where science meets reality, and where the seeds of change are sown. Welcome to a future defined by possibility. Enroll now.
Mastering CRISPR/Cas9-based Gene Editing Technologies in Plants
In the dynamic realm of modern agriculture, the advancement of Novel Breeding Technologies (NBT) has ignited a revolution, with Gene Editing (GE) at its very core. Harnessing the potential of GE, breeders have gained unprecedented tools and technologies that transcend traditional breeding methods. These innovations hold the promise of rapid and precise trait manipulation without compromising native phenotypes. The result? A paradigm shift poised to accelerate genetic discovery, amplify product development, and usher in a new era of agri-food systems characterized by reduced input costs and exponential enhancements in both agronomic performance and nutritional quality.
For researchers with an appetite for cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on experience, the "CRISPR/Cas9-based Gene Editing Technologies in Plants" training program offers a transformative journey into the heart of gene editing. This program serves as a comprehensive bridge between theory and practice, designed to equip participants with a well-rounded understanding of the intricate processes involved.
Immerse yourself in the art of gene editing workflows as we guide you through the entire spectrum of the process. From the inception of target-specific guide RNAs (gRNAs) to the precise delivery of these genetic instruments into plant cells, and culminating in the detection and analysis of resulting mutations – this course unravels the nuances of each stage, demystifying the once-complex landscape of gene editing.
Enriched by the collective expertise of our accomplished team, this training program is poised to empower participants to evolve their experimental methodologies. The future of agriculture is here, and it hinges on the transformative capabilities of gene editing. Join us in this exciting endeavor, where theory and practice converge to unlock a world of boundless possibilities.
Upon completing the "CRISPR/Cas9-based Gene Editing Technologies in Plants" training program, participants will be able to:
Conceptualize Gene Editing: Demonstrate a deep understanding of gene editing concepts, explaining the underlying mechanisms and its potential for targeted genetic modifications.
Craft Effective Designs: Skillfully design guide RNAs and construct CRISPR/Cas9 systems, optimizing the efficiency and accuracy of genetic modifications for specific applications.
Apply High-Throughput Techniques: Utilize advanced high-throughput techniques to expedite gene editing applications, effectively managing multiple genetic targets simultaneously.
Validate with Precision: Conduct molecular and functional validations of edited genetic lines, interpreting results to ascertain the success and impact of gene editing interventions.
Navigate Ethics and Biosafety: Engage in informed discussions on the ethical implications of gene editing technologies, demonstrating an understanding of biosafety measures and responsible implementation.
Researchers and Scientists: Seeking to expand their knowledge and practical skills in CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing technologies, with a focus on applications in plants.
Plant Breeders: Looking to enhance their repertoire of techniques by incorporating precision gene editing for targeted trait improvement in crops.
Graduate Students: Eager to gain hands-on experience and theoretical insights into gene editing, complementing their academic pursuits.
Agricultural Professionals: Interested in staying at the forefront of advancements in sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to food security.
Biotechnology Enthusiasts: Wishing to delve into the intricate world of gene editing, and exploring its potential applications in agriculture.
Academics and Educators: Seeking to update their curriculum with the latest advancements in genetic manipulation techniques and their ethical implications.
Research Institutions and Laboratories: Wanting to equip their teams with practical expertise in gene editing for robust and innovative research projects.
Applications are invited from researchers who are familiar with basic molecular and cell biology techniques and want to learn gene editing applications in agriculture using the most advanced CRISPR systems. While previous experience in gene editing is not required, the participants are expected to have fundamental knowledge and working experience in molecular biology and transformation techniques.
Genome Editing technologies - applications and future prospectives
Editing of crop genomes for trait development: new directions and challenges
Development of biotic and abiotic stress tolerance through CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing system and functional genomics approach
Crop improvement using a genome-editing approach
New breeding tools for accelerated breeding in dryland cereals
Bioinformatics tools for gRNA(s) design
Strategies and cloning of the gRNA(s) and Cas9 in the plant expression vectors
Agrobacterium transformation for the CRISPR/ Cas9 recombinant plasmids by electroporation
Demonstration of delivery of CRISPR cassettes into plant cells
Identification of mutations
Molecular analysis of the gene-edited plants
Accomplished trainers from National and International Research Organizations
All course notes and lectures will be in English. Therefore, participants should have a good knowledge of English and be familiar with the appropriate technical terms of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology.
INR 14,000 (without accommodation)
INR 25,000 (with accommodation)
INR 17,000 (without accommodation)
INR 28,000 (with accommodation)
INR 30,000 (without accommodation)
INR 45,000 (with accommodation)
The venue for the training program is the Platform for Translational Research on Transgenic Crops (PTTC) building, ICRISAT Campus, Patancheru, Hyderabad, India.
Participants will be accommodated in the Guest House/Hotel during training. The cost of any additional stay (beyond the dates of training) would be at the trainee's own expense. Information on an extended stay needs to be given in advance.
BioNcube: Cultivating Ag-Biotech Innovation at the Nexus of Research and Applications
BioNcube stands as an innovative powerhouse within the realm of ag-biotech, nurtured by the BIRAC-Bio incubator. Dedicated to catalyzing transformative change, BioNcube fuels the progression of diverse biotechnological solutions across an array of domains, spanning from fundamental research to the tangible realization of pioneering products.
Harnessing the synergy between visionary thinking and pragmatic implementation, BioNcube is a springboard for agribiotech start-ups. Within its nurturing embrace, these emerging enterprises are granted an unprecedented gateway to the collective scientific wisdom of ICRISAT. The dynamic laboratories at BioNcube are more than mere spaces – they are veritable crucibles of innovation, boasting state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure that encompass plant genotyping, phenotyping, transgenic marvels, gene editing breakthroughs, greenhouses teeming with potential, molecular biology marvels, cutting-edge transformation facilities, and secured experimental fields.
At the core of BioNcube's essence lies an unparalleled value proposition: to interweave business incubation with the profound journey of translation. With a relentless focus on ag-biotech start-ups, BioNcube diligently shepherds them from the intricate proof-of-concept stage through the intricate tapestry of technology translation to the pinnacle of commercialization. This ascendancy doesn't merely serve enterprise ambitions; it heralds the empowerment of farming communities worldwide.
BioNcube is more than a concept – it's an avant-garde narrative of transformation. As it bridges the chasm between innovation and application, it illuminates a path that leads not just to progress, but to a future where biotechnological breakthroughs flourish, agriculture prospers, and communities thrive.
The application can be accessed from the following link: https://forms.gle/3ASkZzCVJ6hBvLfL6
The completed application should be submitted through the link or sent to bioncube@cgiar.org with a copy to wricha.tyagi@icrisat.org, sudhakarreddy.palakolanu@icrisat.org and yogendra.kalenahalli@icrisat.org.
Global Research Program - Enabling Systems Transformations
Cluster Leader – Knowledge and Capacity Development & Gender and Youth
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